Envigado FC pulled off a stunning upset, defeating Atlético Junior 2-1 at the Estadio Metropolitano in Barranquilla on February 24, 2025. This match was highly anticipated, particularly for the return of Teófilo Gutiérrez, who made his reappearance with Junior, adding emotional significance to the game.
The excitement was palpable right from the kickoff. Just one minute in, Junior's Carlos Bacca scored, making it 1-0 and seemingly setting the stage for what could have been an easy victory for the home side. The fans erupted, feeling confident as their team took the early lead against their visitors.
But the jubilance of Junior supporters was short-lived. Just four minutes later, the tides turned when Envigado's Bayron Garcés equalized. Garcés unleashed a powerful shot from outside the penalty area, catching Junior goalkeeper Santiago Mele off guard as it bounced just before it crossed the goal line. The crowd went silent, stunned by the quick shift of momentum.
Throughout the first half, both teams had their chances. Junior's Brayan Castrillón came agonizingly close on several occasions, but his efforts were thwarted by the resolute Envigado defense and goalkeeper Rubén Escobar. The visitors displayed their own attacking prowess, with Geindry Cuervo and Didier Dawson creating multiple opportunities.
Envigado capitalized on Junior's defensive misstep just before halftime, scoring their second goal. A poorly executed clearance by Junior's Jhomier Guerrero fell directly to Cuervo, who slotted it past Mele, giving Envigado a 2-1 lead within the first half. This goal saw the away fans erupt with ecstasy as Junior fans grappled with disbelief.
Following halftime, Junior pushed forward desperately seeking to equalize, reflecting urgency from coach César Farías. It was clear the team needed to rally, particularly after introducing Gutiérrez, who received thunderous applause as he took the pitch for Castrillón.
Despite their efforts and the emotional lift Gutiérrez provided, Junior could not find the net. The veteran forward attempted to create chances, pulling defenders to open space for Bacca and others, but Envigado's disciplined defense held tight, soaking up the pressure.
Throughout the second half, Envigado continued to threaten, almost adding to their lead on several counter-attacks. Junior was left exposed as they chased the game, but they were fortunate to not concede again as opportunities slipped by for the visiting team.
The match concluded with Envigado securing their first win of the Liga BetPlay season, leaving Junior with nine points from their six games, now sitting uncomfortably at eighth place. The loss served as a wake-up call for Junior, highlighting areas of improvement needed to contend for the top spots.
For Envigado, this victory was pivotal for their campaign to evade relegation. Their strategy paid off, utilizing swift counter-attacks and maintaining structural integrity throughout the match. This performance could serve as momentum as they prepare for their upcoming match against Independiente Santa Fe.
The atmosphere following the match was mixed; Junior fans were left lamenting lost opportunities and questioning their team's current form, especially following such high hopes for Gutiérrez's comeback. Meanwhile, Envigado's players celebrated their well-earned three points with their traveling supporters, marking a significant achievement against one of the league's big clubs.
Next week, Junior aims to bounce back when they face Atlético Bucaramanga, needing to regain form quickly to remain competitive. Meanwhile, Envigado's focus shifts to sustaining this newfound momentum as they face Santa Fe, hoping to build on this success.